System, apparatus and method for installation of street furniture

ABSTRACT

Disclosed is a pre-fabricated modular system for installation of both a vehicle restraint system and at least one item of street furniture; the system comprising at least one pre-fabricated foundation module comprising a plurality of attachment points for securely attaching a vehicle restraint system to the foundation module; and at least one pre-fabricated extension module, which comprises one or more attachment points for securely attaching at least one item of street furniture to the extension module; and wherein the extension module and the foundation module comprise cooperating surfaces such that the respective modules can be placed in frictional engagement with one another.

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

The present invention relates, inter alia, to a pre-fabricated modularsystem for the installation of both a vehicle restraint system and atleast one item of street furniture; and a pre-fabricated extensionmodule for use in the system; and to a method of installing both avehicle restraint system and at least one item of street furniture.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

It has been known for many decades to install crash barriers (now knownas “vehicle restraint systems”) along the outer edge of motorwaycarriageways and along the central reservation. Such vehicle restraintsystems are also used on many non-motorway routes.

Methods and systems for installing a vehicle restraint system (“VRS”)should be distinguished from methods and systems for installingbollards, as the requirements and features of the two are verydifferent. With a VRS, the horizontal barrier (a substantiallycontinuous metal rail or wire) is mounted on or attached to uprights—thespacing between the uprights is too great to be sure that they willprevent a typical vehicle (such as an average size saloon car) passingbetween them. Thus the presence of the horizontal barrier is essentialto the efficacy of the system. In contrast, bollard systems comprisediscrete individual bollards mounted close together with an interval orspacing between them which is too small to permit the passage ofatypical vehicle. Thus, with bollard systems, typically just one or atmost two will be impacted by the collision of a single vehicle and thusthe bollards themselves must be robustly constructed, and firmlyanchored, to resist the forces of an impact. With a vehicle restraintsystem, the horizontal barrier itself serves to dissipate the force ofan impact to a large extent, and typically to spread the force of theimpact among two or more uprights. As a result the upright support postscan be much less robustly constructed than bollards. In addition,bollards are typically used in comparatively small installations(perhaps up to a few tens of metres) whilst vehicle restraint systemsmay run for tens of kilometres—thus the cost considerations in eachinstance are very different.

There are many different vehicle restraint systems in use, which differto some extent in design and dimensions, but they are all generallysimilar and intended to prevent vehicles from crossing from onecarriageway to the other, or to prevent vehicles from colliding with, orentering, roadside hazards.

A vehicle restraint system typically comprises a horizontal steelmember, attached to a plurality of vertical steel support posts whichare positioned at intervals. Each support post must be stably anchored,in order to resist impact in the event of a vehicle crashing into thecrash barrier.

Currently there are three ways most commonly used in the UK to anchorvehicle restraint system support posts. These are: (i) “driven post”;(ii) “excavated foundation”; and (iii) “surface-mounted post”.

In the ‘driven post’ technique, the support post is simply driven intothe ground, typically to a depth of 1 to 1.5 metres. This technique ischeap and easy and probably that which is most often employed. However,it requires that the ground is soft enough to drive in the post but hardenough to provide adequate support, and that there are no services (e.g.electric cables, drains, sewers, gas or water pipes) or other obstaclesburied beneath the relevant location. If the driven post technique isnot suitable, one of the other methods must be used. In particular,these do not require penetration into the ground to such a great depth.In the “excavated foundation” technique, a hole (of variable size) isdug, and the support post embedded in a concrete foundation formed inthe excavated hole (with or without a metal socket therein toaccommodate the post). The excavated hole is usually at least 600 mmdeep and typically 800-1000 mm deep to accommodate a support post andanchor it adequately. In other circumstances it may be necessary to usea surface-mounted post. Typically, in this method, the support post iswelded to a steel cradle, which in turn is bolted to holes in a concretesurface, the holes being filled with a synthetic resin which cures tofirmly anchor the cradle and attached post to the surface.

Whatever technique is used to anchor the support post, the ‘strength’ ofanchoring must pass the associated “push test”—there are principally twotests, using a force of either 6 kiloNewtons or 9 kiloNewtons applied tothe post (laterally, in the same direction that a vehicle would impactthe post). The amount of ‘give’ in the post must be less than aparticular threshold.

The various methods of anchoring posts all suffer from a variety ofdisadvantages. One very significant disadvantage is a lack of certaintyregarding the suitability of a particular post-anchoring technique for aparticular location, which makes planning very difficult. In particularbecause the characteristics of the ground, in which the posts are to beanchored, cannot be predicted in advance, and will tend to vary alongthe length of a road construction project, it is not possible to predictwhat type of anchor, (and, for example, what size of excavation) will berequired to meet the push test criteria, without a needlessover-specification of the anchor, which of course adds unnecessarily tothe cost of the project.

Another disadvantage may often be a lack of “serviceability”. If a postis damaged in a collision, it can often be quite difficult to replaceit, and repairs are thus quite complex.

A further problem is that the speed of installation of the posts(especially if using a technique other than the “driven post”) can berather slow.

GB 2000852.0 (unpublished at date of filing of the present application)discloses a modular, pre-fabricated concrete foundation for installing avehicle restraint system, which is aimed at overcoming or amelioratingsome of the aforementioned problems. The present invention concerns,inter alia, improvements to and/or modifications of, the modularfoundation described in GB 2000852.0. A copy of GB 2000852.0 is attachedhereto as an annex.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

In a first aspect, the invention provides a pre-fabricated modularsystem for installation of both a vehicle restraint system and at leastone item of street furniture; the system comprising at least onepre-fabricated foundation module comprising a plurality of attachmentpoints for securely attaching a vehicle restraint system to thefoundation module; and at least one pre-fabricated extension module,which comprises one or more attachment points for securely attaching atleast one item of street furniture to the extension module; and whereinthe extension module is adapted and configured to engage with thefoundation module.

In a second aspect the invention provides a pre-fabricated extensionmodule, comprising one or more attachment points for securely attachingat least one item of street furniture to the extension module, theextension module being adapted and configured to engage with apre-fabricated foundation for a vehicle restraint system.

The pre-fabricated foundation module is preferably of the sort disclosedin GB 2582430, but this is not essential.

The precise nature of the engagement between the foundation module andthe extension module is not critical to the invention. However, it isimportant that the engagement is of sufficient extent and dimension suchthat the extension module benefits from the inertia and rigidity of thefoundation module. In this way, the effective inertia and rigidity ofthe extension module is increased and, as a result, the mass anddimensions of the extension module can be reduced compared to thosewhich would be required if the extension module were a “stand alone”footing for the item of street furniture. Generally speaking, theextension module will thus be less massive than the foundation module.

In some embodiments, the foundation module will be installed first, andthe extension module will be installed overlying the foundation module.In other embodiments, this arrangement will be reversed and thefoundation module will overlie the extension module. In yet otherembodiments, the extension module may be installed at one end of afoundation module, or between the ends of adjacent foundation modules.Desirably, the foundation module and the extension module will comprisecooperating surfaces, such that the respective modules can be positionedon, beneath, around or abutting one another in frictional engagement.

As one example, the foundation module may be formed with a plurality ofapertures and the extension module may be formed with a raised portionof suitable shape and dimension such that the raised portion ispartially or wholly received within an aperture in an overlyingfoundation module; or, conversely, the extension module may be formedwith a downwardly projecting portion such that, when the extensionmodule is installed overlying a foundation module, the downwardlyprojecting portion of the extension module is partially or whollyreceived within an aperture in the underlying foundation module.Additionally or alternatively, the foundation and extension modules maybe provided with respective cooperating grooves and ridges which engageone another when the modules are installed.

In a third aspect, the invention provides a prefabricated foundationmodule for use in installation of both a vehicle restraint system and atleast one item of street furniture, the module comprising a plurality ofattachment points for securely attaching a vehicle restraint system tothe foundation module, and one or more attachment points for securelyattaching at least one item of street furniture to the foundationmodule.

In the module of the third aspect, the plurality of attachment pointsfor securely attaching a vehicle restraint system will conveniently bealigned, typically at or near the centre line of the module. The streetfurniture attachment point or points will desirably be set to one sideof the aligned vehicle restraint system attachment points so that, inuse, the item or items of street furniture will be behind the vehiclerestraint system relative to a vehicle passing along the carriageway sothat, in general, a vehicle cannot impact the street furniture withoutfirst colliding with the vehicle restraint system, which collision willabsorb some of the kinetic energy of the vehicle.

The item of street furniture to be attached to the foundation module, orextension module, as the case may be, will most commonly be a lightingcolumn for a street light, but any item of street furniture can beattached. Examples include direction signs, road signs, warning signs,traffic cameras, traffic lights and signals, emergency telephones,supports for overhead gantries, safety fencing, acoustic dampingfencing, and so on.

The foundation module, or extension module, as the case may be, maycomprise a plurality of street furniture attachment points. These may beidentical, so as to provide a plurality of alternative positions for asingle item of street furniture. Alternatively, the arrangement canprovide for attachment of multiple units of an identical item of streetfurniture. Yet a further possibility is the incorporation in thefoundation module, or extension module, as the case may be, of multipleattachment points of different types, to permit the attachment ofdifferent types of street furniture to the module. For example, a singlefoundation or extension module may permit the attachment of both alighting column and a fence. A convenient type of attachment point foruse on the foundation module or extension module, as the case may be, isa NAL socket, which is widely used for the attachment and mounting ofstreet furniture items.

Yet more flexibility can be present in the system. For example, eachfoundation module may have only one site which can be occupied by asingle extension module so as to engage with the foundation module.Alternatively, each foundation module could be provided with a pluralityof sites, each of which could be occupied by a extension module. Thisallows a single extension module to be located at one of severaldifferent sites on the foundation module, offering a degree of choicewhere the extension module, and hence the item of street furniture to beattached to the extension module, is positioned. Alternatively, two ormore extension modules could occupy respective engagement sites on asingle foundation module thus permitting, for example, the attachment ofone item to two different, spatially separated, extension modules (whichmay be desirable for greater strength and rigidity), or the attachmentof two or more items of street furniture (which may be the same ordifferent to one another) within the length of verge or centralreservation taken up by a single foundation module.

Desirably the foundation module consists, or is predominantly formed of,concrete. The concrete may preferably comprise metal reinforcement.Preferred metal (e.g. steel) reinforcement will comprise a plurality ofmetal rods running along the long axis of the foundation module. Ifdesired, one or more further transverse metal reinforcement rods may beprovided, substantially at a right angle to the long axis of thefoundation module.

In typical embodiments the foundation module will comprise asubstantially rectilinear shape, similar to a concrete beam. Eachmodular section of foundation module will normally be essentiallyidentical and, in practice, a plurality of such modules will be laid endto end to achieve the desired length of run of foundation module. Theprecise dimensions of the foundation modules are not critical, but atypical embodiment of the invention may be 6 to 8 metres in length,about 800 to 1200 mm wide and 200 to 400 mm in height.

The foundation module will, in use, generally be located in a shallowtrench. The depth of the trench will advantageously be less than thedepth reached by the bottom of a support post driven into the ground inthe “driven post” technique, and will be less than the depth ofexcavation normally required for the “excavated foundation” technique.Conveniently the trench will be 150-250 mm deep, preferably about 200 mmdeep. In this way, a benefit of the invention is that such a relativelyshallow trench is less likely to impact on buried services, and theperson skilled in the art will have more freedom in deciding where toposition the vehicle restraint system. The strength and inertia of thefoundation module is such that a relatively shallow trench is sufficientto provide adequate anchorage. Indeed, in extremis (and typically onlyfor temporary installations) it may be possible for the foundationmodule to be used above ground, without any trench.

It is highly preferred that the foundation module is perforated oraperture, as explained below.

There is a considerable variety of commercially available vehiclerestraint systems, and these will typically dictate the interval betweenattachment points on the foundation module. For example, one system inwidespread use has support posts located 1600 or 3200 mm apart,depending on the rigidity required in the system, whilst anothercommonly-used system has support posts at intervals of 2000 mm; and theinterval between attachment points on the foundation module of theinvention may preferably correspond to one of these commonly-useddistances, but other embodiments with different intervals, for use withother vehicle restraint systems, are perfectly feasible and envisaged inthe present invention.

In one embodiment, the foundation module resembles a ladder, withtransverse portions or “rungs” at regular fixed intervals across thefoundation module where the attachment points are provided. Thefoundation module between the rungs is apertured or perforated,typically with one aperture or perforation between each pair of adjacent“rungs”. The apertures or perforations are conveniently positioned alongthe centre line of the foundation module. Advantageously the aperturesor perforations extend over more than half of the separation betweenadjacent attachment points.

One purpose of the apertures or perforations in the foundation module isto facilitate access to any services which might be locatable or locatedbeneath the foundation module, thereby fairly readily permittinginspection, maintenance or repair of the services as required. Anotherpurpose of the apertures or perforations is to facilitate drainage ofrain water and the like. In order to facilitate access to underlyingservices, it is highly preferred that any metal reinforcing componentspresent in the foundation module do not extend into the apertures orperforations. For this reason, the use of reinforcing mesh or grids ispreferably avoided, and instead reinforcing bars or rods, which can beoffset beyond the side of the apertured portions of the foundationmodule, are advantageous.

However, it may be preferable that some or all of the apertures areprovided with a mesh, typically made of steel, which is removablylocated within the apertures. Such mesh is to be distinguished from thestructural reinforcing elements which are embedded within the concreteof the foundation module and cannot be removed therefrom. The purpose ofthe removable mesh is to permit the passage of rainwater or other fluidsthrough the apertures, whilst preventing the ingress of soil, leaves orthe like. Water or other fluid passing through the apertures may enter adrainage channel provided in an optional conduit unit described below.The removable mesh may be secured within the apertures by releasableattachment means, such as screws, clips or the like. The mesh may beremoved to facilitate access to services located beneath the foundationmodule.

The exact type of attachment point provided on the foundation module isnot critical to the present invention, and several different designs ofattachment point can be envisaged. (Equally, the type of attachmentpoints provided on the extension modules is not critical to performanceof the invention.) Generally, however, each attachment point on thefoundation module facilitates the secure anchoring of a (substantiallyvertical) support post for a VRS barrier. The attachment points on thefoundation module are desirably predetermined, and conveniently are at afixed, and preferably regular, interval along the foundation module. Itis a highly preferred feature of the invention that the support post,once attached to the foundation module, is sufficiently firmly anchoredthat it will be guaranteed to meet the 6 kiloNewton or 9 kiloNewton pushtest, as appropriate. The inventor had found that, in tests, the supportpost will typically deform rather than the foundation module moving.

In this way, using the pre-fabricated foundation module of theinvention, a planner planning the construction of a road can know inadvance, with certainty, that the specified support posts for a vehiclerestraint system will, when in position, pass the appropriate anchorpush test. Further, it avoids any need to test the conditions of theground along the edge of the carriageway to ascertain what type of postanchor would be suitable.

In order to provide the necessary anchoring capability for the supportposts, the foundation module of the invention can readily be designedwith sufficient rigidity and mass/inertia. The requirements for theseparameters will depend on the manner in which the pre-fabricatedfoundation module is to be used, and the location of its deployment. Itis envisaged therefore that, in practice, a range of pre-fabricatedfoundation modules may be produced with different dimensions and mass,such that a skilled person planning a road construction can select thosepre-fabricated foundation modules which are most appropriate for theparticular construction. Thus, for example, bigger and more massivepre-fabricated foundation modules may be appropriate if the foundationmodules are to be surface-exposed and/or used on ground of relativelylow resistance; whilst smaller and less massive pre-fabricatedfoundation modules may be appropriate for situations in which thefoundation module will be sited within a trench which is back-filled toa significant extent.

Other advantages stemming from the invention may include:

-   -   (a) increased speed of installation—the foundation modules can        be rapidly installed, there is no need to conduct ground        testing, and generally less need to perform any excavation by        hand (which slows down the rate of construction);    -   (b) increased flexibility—as the foundation module does not need        to be positioned as deep as driven posts, there is less risk of        damage to underlying services during installation of the vehicle        restraint system, and less likelihood of underground        obstructions interfering with the preferred siting of the        support posts;    -   (c) increased reliability—the support post positions are        predetermined by the attachment points on the foundation module,        leaving less chance of error by workmen on site;    -   (d) reusability—the foundation module can be easily dug up and        re-used e.g. if utilised on a temporary construction site or if        a carriageway is re-routed, and especially in view of the        modular nature of the foundation module, one or more sections of        foundation module can be easily replaced (e.g. if damaged);    -   (e) increased ease of access to services located beneath the        vehicle restraint system, due to the perforated or aperture        nature of the preferred foundation module;    -   (f) reduced verge requirement—currently, due to health and        safety considerations, it is standard practice in the industry        to avoid installing driven posts, or machine-excavated        foundations, within 1000 mm of underground services—as a result,        a great width of verge is required to install both services and        vehicle restraint systems whilst allowing for the 1000 mm        separation between the two. In contrast, the present system        potentially allows for the vehicle restraint system to overlie        any services with far less risk than conventional installation        techniques, such that a narrower verge can be used; and    -   (g) increased compliance with Highway Construction Details        (“HCD”)—there is, in principle, a requirement that any concrete        used in the installation of the vehicle restraint system should        be allowed to cure for 28 days before the road is opened to        traffic. In practice this is frequently disregarded, but the use        of a pre-fabricated concrete foundation module allows the        regulation to be observed.

In one embodiment, each attachment point on the foundation modulecomprises a socket formed in, and optionally through, the foundationmodule, such that a support post may be passed into, and preferablythrough, the foundation module. The support post will typically extendabout 300 to 500 mm below the foundation module, preferably 250 to 350mm. If desired, the socket may be provided with a sleeve or liner, whichmay optionally be removable from the foundation module. The sleeve orliner is conveniently formed of metal such as steel.

In one embodiment, the sleeve or liner is dimensioned so as to bereceived snugly within the socket formed in the foundation module, butmay extend beneath the foundation module by a length (e.g. 100-500 mm)suitable to accommodate a bottom part of a support post. The sleeve orliner may project above the foundation module by an amount e.g. in therange 0-50 mm.

The sleeve or liner, if formed as a separate component, removable fromthe foundation module, may possess a small flange portion or collar,extending around the upper surface about the socket, so as to helpretain the sleeve or liner in a desired positon relative to thefoundation module.

In some embodiments the sleeve or liner may desirably be formed with apointed, conical, or generally tapered or wedge-shaped lower end, tofacilitate insertion into the ground beneath the foundation module.

The sockets formed in the foundation module may, in preferredembodiments, take the form of generally cylindrical apertures throughthe foundation module which, in cross-section, may typically be circularor, more desirably square or rectangular in section. The most convenientshape is a rectangular section cylinder, which conforms to the shape anddimensions of commonly-used support posts (e.g. a ‘Z’-section supportpost, although other commonly used support posts are formed with an ‘H’or ‘I’-shaped section; any of these can be accommodated by suitablyshaped and dimensioned sockets in the foundation module).

In other embodiments, the foundation module may comprise a plurality ofsockets, with or without metal sleeves or liners, and the support postsdo not necessarily extend beneath the foundation module.

In such embodiments, the foundation module may conveniently be ofincreased dimension in depth around the sockets, compared to themajority of the foundation module, so as to enhance the rigidity of thefoundation module around the sockets, the better to resist any forceimposed as a result of a vehicle colliding with the vehicle restraintsystem. In addition, it may be advantageous to provide each socket withat least one drain hole, so that rain or other water cannot accumulatein the socket and facilitate corrosion or other degradation of a fencepost within the socket.

In some embodiments, one or more sockets in the foundation module may beprovided with retaining means for retaining a support post within thesocket. The retaining means is preferably readily releasable so that asupport post retained in the socket can be readily removed if desired.In this way, if a support post is damaged (e.g. as a result of a vehiclecolliding with the post or barrier), it may readily be replaced with anew support post. In one embodiment, the plurality of sockets in thefoundation module are each formed with a pair of bores in the wallsthereof, one on each side of the socket, which are aligned. In use aretaining bolt or pin (e.g. made of steel) is inserted into one of thebores in the socket wall, and then passed through a correspondingpre-formed hole towards or near the base of the support post when thepost is inserted into the socket, and thence into the other aligned borein the opposite socket wall. For ease of removal of the retaining boltor pin, it is preferable that the bores extend at least on one side, anddesirably on both sides, right through the attachment point to anadjacent aperture. The retaining bolt is preferably releasably securedwithin the socket by a nut or the like.

In another embodiment, each attachment point on the foundation modulesubstantially corresponds to a conventional mounting position for asurface-mounted post.

A conventional surface-mounted post is typically formed with an H-shapedbase plate, the two arms of the ‘H’ being flattened flange portions witha hole disposed towards each end, such that there are four holes intotal in the base plate. Four corresponding holes are drilled in theroad surface, foundation or other solid surface on which thesurface-mounted post is to be positioned, and a metal anchor or fixingis placed in each of the holes in the solid surface and fixed therein bythe curing of a synthetic resin. The base plate of the post is thenattached to these anchors or fixings by positioning metal studs orfasteners, such that each stud or fastener passes through one of theholes in the base plate and enters into a strong, screw-threadedengagement with a respective one of the metal anchors or fixings in thesolid surface.

Accordingly, in embodiments of the invention adapted and configured foruse with surface-mounted posts, it may be desired for each attachmentpoint to be provided with at least one (preferably a plurality) ofpre-drilled or otherwise pre-formed holes, to indicate the desiredposition of metal anchors or fixings to be inserted to anchor thesupport post to the foundation module. It is possible however, that atleast some, or even all, of the holes in the attachment point are notpre-formed but are introduced in situ, typically by drilling. The postwill then be attached to the foundation module in substantiallyconventional manner by metal studs, fasteners, nuts or other securingmeans which enter into a screw-threaded engagement with the anchors orfixings already secured in the foundation module.

Indeed, in a preferred embodiment of the invention for use withsurface-mounted type posts, the (typically metal) anchors or fixings maybe already present in the foundation module as supplied to theconstruction site. In particular, it may be preferred to incorporate theanchors or fixings at the concrete-casting stage of the foundationmodule (i.e. substantially at the outset), which eliminates the need todrill holes into the foundation module, after the concrete has set, toaccommodate the anchors or fixings.

It will be appreciated that, whilst it is possible that two or moredifferent types of VRS attachment point may be present on a singlefoundation module, it will generally be advantageous that a single typeof VRS attachment point is present on a single foundation module.

It is a preferred feature of the invention that opposed ends of thefoundation module are shaped so as to co-operate with the opposed endsof other foundation modules in accordance with the invention. In oneembodiment, one end of a foundation module is shaped to form a malemember, and the opposed end of the foundation module is reciprocallyshaped to form a female member, such that the male member of a firstfoundation module may co-operate with the female member of a secondfoundation module. A convenient selection of male and female memberscomprises a male member in the shape of a projecting trapezium or aninverted triangle with the apex truncated, and the female member beingformed as a reciprocally shaped re-entrant trapezium or the re-entrantbase of a truncated triangle. More especially, the opposed ends aredesirably shaped and dimensioned so as to permit a first foundationmodule to be moved in a substantially vertical plane relative to asecond foundation module, but so as to resist lateral (and/orrotational) relative movement in at least one direction in asubstantially horizontal plane. In this way, a second foundation modulecan be lowered into place, adjacent to, and in co-operating engagementwith, a previously positioned first foundation module.

Thus, for example, conveniently, once the abutting ends of adjacentfoundation modules have been placed in engagement, the foundationmodules may be separated by lifting one or other of the foundationmodules in a substantially vertical plane, but the foundation modulescannot be separated by relative horizontal movement in a transversedirection at right angles to the long axis of the foundation module.Where the first and second foundation modules engage with aninterlocking (e.g. dovetail) engagement, the foundation modules willresist relative movement in any direction in a horizontal plane. Inother simpler embodiments, relative movement in a horizontal planegenerally along the long axis of the foundation modules may still bepermitted, but transverse movement generally at right angles to be thelong axis of the foundation modules is resisted. Such an embodiment thuspermits a first foundation module to be connected to a second foundationmodule by relative horizontal movement thereof along the long axis ofthe aligned foundation modules, or by relative vertical movement of thetwo aligned foundation modules.

In yet another embodiment, the ends of adjacent foundation modules areadapted and configured so as to allow for at least some relativerotational or pivotal movement in a horizontal plane. As an example ofsuch an embodiment, the foundation module may be formed with aprojecting male member at one end and a reciprocally shaped femalerecess at the other end, wherein the male member has a curved face,which may preferably describe a substantial part of a circle. Where themale member is semi-circular or describes less than half of a circulararc, and the female recess is reciprocally shaped and is a semi-circularrecess or describes less than half of a circular arc, then the opposedmale and female ends of adjacent foundation modules can be engaged anddisengaged by simple relative longitudinal movement, pushing the twofoundation modules together to engage, or pulling them apart todisengage.

However, if desired, the foundation modules may be formed with aprojecting male member which describes an arc of more than 180° of acircle (e.g. 220-270°), and the reciprocal female recess similarlydescribes an arc of greater than 180°. In such an embodiment, there isan interlocking engagement between the male member and female recess,such that the opposed ends of adjacent foundation modules cannot beengaged or disengaged by simple relative longitudinal movement in ahorizontal plane, but can be engaged or disengaged by relative verticaldisplacement.

In such embodiments as described in the preceding paragraphs, one orboth ends of the foundation module are preferably formed with an angledshoulder portion, which permits a greater angle of relative rotationalor pivotal movement between adjacent, engaged foundation modules.

It will be apparent that, in embodiments of the invention which allowfor some limited relative rotational or pivotal movement of adjacentfoundation modules, adjacent foundation modules can be engaged with oneanother (e.g. by relative vertical displacement, sliding or dropping onefoundation module into engagement with its neighbour), and rotatedthrough a desired angle to impart a desired change of direction or‘kink’ in a run of foundation modules.

It will also be apparent to those skilled in the art that, inembodiments of the invention in which an extension module is adapted andconfigured to be positioned between, and engage with, the end portionsof respective foundation modules, the various shapes and geometriesdescribed above in relation to foundation modules can be adopted in, ormirrored by, corresponding or co-operating surfaces of the extensionmodule, as necessary, to allow the extension module to engage with thefoundation module.

In addition, or as an alternative, to the aforementioned shapedco-operating ends of adjacent foundation modules, in some embodimentsthe foundation module may be provided with connecting means, whichfunctions to connect the opposed ends of adjacent foundation modules.For example, in one embodiment, one or more bores (preferably two) areprovided at each end of a foundation module), which bores are preferablysufficiently long to communicate with the aperture nearest the end ofthe foundation module. In this way a metal bolt, tie or the like may beinserted into one end of a bore, and pass through into an aligned,co-operating bore formed in the end of the adjacent foundation module,and secured therein by a nut or other fastener. Typically an M24 (i.e.24 mm diameter) bolt and associated nut is suitable for this purpose.M24 bolts are readily available commercially in lengths up to about 240mm. Conveniently a pair of bores is formed at each end of the foundationmodule.

Notwithstanding the preceding paragraph, in preferred embodiments of thesystem and method of the invention, adjacent foundation modules are heldin position without requiring the aid of metal fixings between them andwithout being set in concrete footings, which cures about them.Typically the foundation modules are held in place primarily by theirown weight and by engagement of co-operating shaped ends of respectiveadjacent foundation modules. In like manner, additionally oralternatively, in preferred embodiments of the system and method of theinvention, one or more extension modules are held in position on afoundation module without requiring the aid of metal fixings thereto andwithout being set in a concrete footing which cures about it. Typicallythe extension module is held in place by the weight of the foundationmodule and by engagement of co-operating shaped portions of theextension module(s) and foundation module which engage with one another.

In preferred embodiments, the ends of the foundation module are made,and/or the foundation modules positioned, in such a way as to allow forthermal expansion and contraction of the foundation module. For example,for a foundation module substantially consisting of concrete, an 8000 mmlong foundation module might be expected to extend or contract in lengthby up to 4 mm.

Generally the ends of the foundation module will be perpendicular to thelong axis of the foundation module. However it may be convenient forsome foundation modules to have at least one end which is at an angle ofe.g. between 5 and 40 degrees to the long axis of the foundation module,where the foundation module is to be installed along a curved section ofcarriageway. It will be apparent that, if desired, both opposed ends ofthe foundation module may be set at an angle to the long axis of otherthan 90°. This angle may be the same at both ends, or may be different.Equally, an extension module for use in the invention may be providedwith opposed ends which may not be parallel to one another (e.g. at anangle of between 5 and 40°).

It may be desirable, in some embodiments, for the foundation module ofthe invention to be held in place by bracing means. This may beespecially desirable where the ground is insufficiently stable toprovide adequate support for the foundation module and/or where thefoundation module is to be installed on a narrow verge at a roadside.The bracing means may, for example, comprise a stake or post, typicallyof metal (e.g. steel) which is driven into the ground. The bracing meansmight act on a front or rear edge of the foundation module. Additionallyor alternatively the foundation module may be provided with one or morebracing holes (e.g. formed in the transverse portions and/or at the endregions of the foundation module), through which a bracing stake or postmay be driven. The bracing means may advantageously be secured in placeby concrete, or the bracing means may be provided with a welded plate,flange or collar which can be attached to the foundation module by aconventional “surface mounted” technique, of the sort already describedelsewhere. In one embodiment, the foundation module is formed with oneor more bracing holes of 120×50 mm dimension, which accommodate awidely-used metal post acting as a bracing means.

As will be apparent, the system of the present invention furthertypically comprises an extension module adapted and configured to engagewith the foundation module. The foundation module provides a footing forone or more items of street furniture. The item of street furniture mayinclude, but is not limited to, one of the following: a street light, aroad sign, and emergency telephone, a yardage counter, a light for aroad sign.

The extension module will preferably be substantially formed ofconcrete, optionally reinforced concrete. The extension module willcomprise a suitable attachment point or anchorage for the relevant itemof street furniture. In a typical embodiment the extension module willcomprise an NAL-socket, which is widely used as an anchor for variousitems of street furniture.

The system of the invention allows for the substantially simultaneousinstallation of both a vehicle restraint system and one or more items ofstreet furniture, since the footings and attachment points for both theVRS and the street furniture can be positioned and installed inessentially a single operation. This greatly simplifies planning andimplementation of highway construction projects. For example, a motorwayverge or other highway boundary can be completely simulated or modelledon a computer in advance of construction, since all of the componentsrequired may be pre-fabricated with predetermined characteristics (size,strength etc.). In addition, the various components may be assembled ordisassembled in situ and are reusable. Since the components can beinstalled “in one go” by a single contractor, the system of theinvention avoids the need to coordinate multiple contractors during theconstruction project. In particular, the invention provides for theprovision of attachment points for multiple independent systems on asingle pre-cast concrete block.

Another unique feature of the invention, in preferred embodiments, is asfollows: conventionally, it is necessary to position a lighting columnso as to be outside the “working width” of a vehicle restraint systemi.e. the lighting column is beyond the maximum extent of deflection ofthe crash barrier (in the event of a vehicle impacting the barrier),such that the occupants of the vehicle cannot be harmed by the lightingcolumn. With the present invention, a combined crash barrier/lightingcolumn unit can be investigated in a test impact to demonstrate that alighting column, possibly within the “working width” of the crashbarrier, will not harm the occupants of an impacting vehicle. As aresult of such tests, using standardised components, it will be possibleto position lighting columns (or other items of street furniture) withinthe working width of a crash barrier, and thereby reduce the width ofthe verge or otherwise reduce the width required to install the streetfurniture.

In a fourth aspect, the invention provides a method of installing avehicle restraint system and at least one item of street furniture, themethod comprising the steps of:

-   -   (a) positioning a selected prefabricated foundation module, as        previously defined above, at a desired location;    -   (b) attaching at least one VRS support post to an attachment        point on the foundation module;    -   (c) providing at least one attachment point for attaching an        item of street furniture, said street furniture attachment point        being present either on the foundation module, or on an        extension module, which extension module, if present, is        positioned in engagement with the foundation module.

The method will generally further comprise the step (d) of attaching aVRS barrier to the support post. Preferably a plurality of support postswill be attached to the foundation module, and typically a plurality offoundation modules will be deployed, each having a plurality of supportposts attached thereto.

The method will also typically further comprise the step (e) ofattaching an item of street furniture to the street furniture attachmentpoint.

In those embodiments of the invention in which an extension module isutilised, the extension module will be positioned in engagement with oneor more foundation modules. The sequence in which the various modulesare positioned will depend on the characteristics of the embodimentemployed. Thus, for example, foundation modules may be positionedinitially, and one or more extension modules subsequently deployed ontop of the foundation modules, or this sequence may be reversed. Inthose embodiments in which an extension module is deployed betweenneighbouring foundation modules, will normally be desirable for one ofthe foundation modules to be deployed first, followed by the extensionmodule, and then the second foundation module. However, in principle,this sequence can be varied (for example, the two foundation modulescould be deployed initially, followed by installation the extensionmodule therebetween; or the extension module could be deployedinitially, followed by the deployment of a respective foundation moduleon either side of the extension module). In any event, it is a featureof such embodiments that the extension module is adapted and configuredso as to engage with at least one foundation module.

The method may also advantageously comprise an initial step ofexcavating a trench of length and width suitable to accommodate one ormore of the selected pre-fabricated foundation modules. Desirably thetrench is dug by machine. The depth of the trench may depend on severalfactors, including, for example: the depth below ground level of anyunderlying services (such as drains, sewers, electric cables or gaspipes); communication cables or hard ground. Typically the trench willbe 150-250 mm in depth.

It will be appreciated that the method of the invention will normallyinvolve positioning a plurality of foundation modules, most or all ofwhich will be of substantially identical design and construction.Desirably the end of one foundation module will be shaped anddimensioned so as to engage with the opposed end of another foundationmodule, such that the step of positioning the foundation modules mayinvolve placing adjacent foundation modules into engagement or eveninterlocking relationship with one another. Optionally, in addition, oras an alternative, to the aforementioned engagement, connecting meanssuch as metal bolts or ties may be inserted into bores provided at theends of adjacent foundation modules, and secured with nuts or otherfasteners, the bores of adjacent foundation modules being aligned toreceive the bolts.

If any preliminary excavation has been required, some or all of thespoil may be back-filled onto the foundation module once the supportposts have been anchored to the foundation module. This back-filling maybe performed before or after the vehicle restraint member/crash barrierhas been attached to the support posts.

In some embodiments, the top of the foundation module when installed maybe slightly below the level of the surface of the carriageway, such thatsurface water on the carriageway may be readily drained onto thefoundation module and then pass through the apertures therein. In otherembodiments, the top of the foundation module when installed may besubstantially level with the surface of the carriageway. In still otherembodiments, when installed the top of the foundation module may beabove the surface of the carriageway, typically about 100-125 mm abovethe surface of the carriageway. This arrangement has the advantage thatthe foundation module may form a kerb or edging to the carriageway.However, the side wall of the foundation module may then tend to preventdrainage of surface water from the carriageway onto the verge and/oronto the foundation module. To avoid this, the side wall of thefoundation module may be provided with one or more drainage gaps toallow water from the carriageway to drain into the foundation module.

In some embodiments, the foundation module may be mounted or positionedon an underlying conduit unit. The conduit unit may be a separatepre-fabricated component, or may form an integral sub-component of thefoundation module. The conduit unit is conveniently formed of concrete.It is preferred that the conduit is separate from the foundation module,as this aids removal of the foundation module and the conduit unit inthe event that access is required to the services etc. located beneaththe conduit unit. The conduit unit may be provided in sections of thesame length as the foundation module, or may be different (longer orshorter than the foundation module). In one particular embodiment, theconduit unit is provided in pre-fabricated lengths of 2 metres or so(e.g. substantially shorter than the foundation module) in order tofacilitate removal of one or two selected individual conduit units ifdesired.

In a preferred embodiment the conduit unit has a cross-sectionresembling adjacent, conjoined, letters “n” and “u”, such that theconduit unit substantially possesses rotational symmetry of order 2about its long axis.

The “n” shaped part of the conduit unit may form a protective arch overservices, laid beneath the conduit unit. The services may comprise, forexample, electrical cables, gas pipes and the like.

The “u” shaped part of the conduit unit may form a drainage channel todrain away surface water which falls onto the structure or which drainsonto the structure from the surface of the carriageway.

In some embodiments the foundation module and the conduit unit areprovided as separate components. In this event, it is desirable thatpositioning guide means is provided on one or both units to assist inplacing the foundation module in a desired position relative to theconduit unit. An example of such positioning guide means is to haveco-operating surfaces formed on the foundation module and conduit unit,which guide means are formed with a stepped profile, e.g. a profile onthe upper edge of a conduit unit which co-operates with a reciprocallystepped profile on the bottom edges of the foundation module.

In other embodiments, the foundation module and conduit unit may form asingle integrated component. For example, they may be cast ab initio asa single component in concrete, or they may be cast separately butassembled together after manufacture for delivery onsite as a single,pre-assembled component.

As noted above, an advantage of the foundation module of the inventionis that it is reusable. Accordingly in some methods in accordance withthe invention, there may be a preliminary step of obtaining the selectedpre-fabricated foundation module by digging up and/or repositioning apreviously deployed foundation module. For example, where a foundationmodule has been deployed to support a vehicle restraint at a temporarysite, the foundation module may subsequently be reused at a second orfurther location.

The fabrication of the foundation module may be achieved by essentiallyconventional manufacturing techniques known in the industry, but withminor adaptations suitable for the invention. Thus, for example, aconcrete foundation module in accordance with the invention may be madeby pouring concrete into the mould cavity space of a metal mould of thedesired size and shape. Desirably the wet concrete used is of grade ST5or greater.

Prior to, during, or immediately after, the pouring of the concrete intothe mould cavity, any desired metal reinforcing components will also beintroduced into the mould cavity. In some embodiments (especially thoseintended for use with conventional surface-mounted posts), metal anchorsor fixings will also be located, at desired positions, in the mouldcavity. A jig is conveniently employed to ensure accurate positioning ofthe metal anchors or fixings, which latter will form an integral part ofthe foundation module once the concrete has set.

The invention will now be further described by way of illustrativeexample and with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which:

FIG. 1A is a plan view of one embodiment of the invention;

FIG. 1B is a side elevation of the embodiment shown in FIG. 1A, withadditional accessories;

FIGS. 1C and 1D are illustrations of the layout of integral steelreinforcement bars within one embodiment of the invention, as seen fromabove (1C) or one side (1D);

FIGS. 2 and 3 are perspective views of a system for installing a vehiclerestraint system in accordance with the second aspect of the invention;

FIG. 4 is a perspective view of a further embodiment of a system forinstalling a vehicle restraint system in accordance with the secondaspect of the invention;

FIGS. 5A-5C are various views of another embodiment of a foundationmodule for use in a system in accordance with the present invention;

FIGS. 6-8 are partial views of various embodiments of a system inaccordance with an aspect of the invention; and

FIG. 9 is a perspective view of a system in accordance with theinvention, in situ, with an installed VRS and various items of streetfurniture.

EXAMPLES Example 1

A first embodiment of a foundation module suitable for use in the firstor second aspects of the invention is shown in plan view in FIG. 1A. Theapparatus comprises a pre-fabricated foundation module 2 of reinforcedconcrete. The module is about 8 m long, 1000 mm wide, and 200 mm deep. Afirst end of the module is formed with a projecting male member 4,whilst an opposed second end of the module 2 is formed with a re-entrantfemale member 6. The male member 4 and the female member 6 arereciprocally shaped, so that the male member 4 of a module 2 can bereceived within the female member 6 of another module 2 so as to createan interlocking engagement, which permits relative movement of the twomodules in a substantially vertical plane, but resists relative lateralmovement in a substantially horizontal plane.

The module comprises four attachment points 8-8′″, which are at a fixedinterval of 2000 mm. Each of the attachment points 8-8′″ comprises anidentical socket through the entire depth of the module 2. As best seenin FIG. 1B, each socket is provided with a removable steel liner orsleeve, locatable within the socket and extending beneath the module 2into the ground below. The socket is of rectangular cross-section,shaped and dimensioned to receive and retain the liner or sleeve, whichis in turn shaped and dimensioned to receive the end of acommercially-available Z-section support post of common and conventionaldesign.

Each attachment point 8-8′″ is provided in a respective ‘rung’ 10-10′″across the module. Between adjacent rungs 10-10′″ is a large aperture12-12″ formed in the module. Additional smaller apertures 14,14′ areprovided towards opposite ends of the module. The highly aperturednature of the module facilitates access to, and inspection, maintenanceor repair of, any services underlying the module 2 when it is in situalong the edge of a road carriageway.

In order to use the apparatus, a trench of suitable dimensions isexcavated at the desired location and the module is lowered into thetrench. A steel sleeve or liner 16 (seen in FIG. 1A) is placed in eachof attachment points 8-8′″ and driven into the ground, and a supportpost is then inserted into each steel sleeve or liner 16. The dimensionsof the sleeve or liner are such that a widely-used, commerciallyavailable support post may be snugly received within the sleeve or liner16, so as to be firmly anchored by the sleeve and module. The mass andrigidity of the module 2 allows the support posts to be firmly anchoredwithout driving the posts to the depth of penetration which would berequired in the absence of the module.

Once the support posts have been secured to the module, the spoilexcavated in the digging of the trench may be partially or whollyback-filled on top of the module 2, depending on the requirements of theconstructor, and the vehicle restraint barrier or crash barrier isattached to the anchored support posts by wholly conventional means(e.g. nuts and bolts).

In the embodiment illustrated, the sleeve or liner 16 is shaped anddimensioned so as to snugly receive a conventional 170×49 mm ‘Z’ sectionpost.

If desired, the foundation module 2 can also be provided with one ormore attachment points for securely attaching at least one item ofstreet furniture to the foundation module. This permits, if desired, theoptional omission of an extension module from the system of invention.

FIGS. 1C and 1D illustrate an embodiment generally similar to thatillustrated in FIGS. 1A/1B (although shorter, and with fewer ‘rungs’ 10and apertures 12), and like components are denoted with common referencenumerals. The Figures illustrate the internal arrangement of theintegral steel reinforcing bars provided in the foundation module. Thesecomprise four parallel pairs of main bars 3 along the long axis of themodule, which are joined by a plurality of transverse members, of whicha representative example is denoted by reference numeral 5. Thetransverse members are situated within the ‘rungs’ 10. All the bars 3, 5are of conventional H10 size. It is apparent from the Figures that thereinforcement bars do not protrude into the apertures 12.

Example 2

Referring to FIG. 2 , there is illustrated a step in the installation ofa vehicle restraint system in accordance with the method of theinvention. The method comprises installation of a foundation module 2,of the embodiment shown in FIGS. 1A & 1 , together with a plurality ofvertical support posts 20-20′″. Each support post 20-20′″ is aconventional Z-section steel post, which is received in a respective oneof the corresponding attachment points 8-8′″ (shown in FIG. 1A) and theassociated sleeve or liner 16 (shown in FIG. 1 ).

A conventional horizontal steel crash barrier can then be attached tothe support posts 20-20′″ by nuts and bolts, the support posts beingapertured to permit the passage of suitably sized bolts.

A further example illustration of an installation method in accordancewith the invention is shown in FIG. 3 . The illustrated examplecomprises a foundation module 2. At each of the plurality of attachmentpoints on the module is a vertical support post 20-20′″. These areanchored to the foundation module 2 via their integral base plate, ofthe type used conventionally to anchor a surface-mounted post. Thesupport posts 20-20′″ with welded base plate are anchored to the module2 by two-part metal bolts sunk into holes drilled into the foundationmodule 2. A bottom part or anchor is positioned in the foundationmodule; and a top part is passed through a pre-formed hole in the baseplate and into screw-threaded engagement with the bottom part or anchor.Conveniently the bottom part or anchors are incorporated into the module2 at the casting stage, which avoids the need for subsequently drillingholes into the module, after it has set, to accommodate the anchors.Four two-part bolts are used, one at each corner of the base plate, anda liquid synthetic resin is used to fill the residual volume. The resinis allowed to cure, such that the base plates, and their attachedsupport posts 20-20′″, are firmly anchored. A conventional ‘W’-sectionsteel crash barrier 22, is then attached in a substantially horizontalplane to the substantially vertical support posts 20-20′″. Again, theattachment is by use of conventional fixings, such as nuts and bolts.

As described in relation to Example 1, the foundation module 2illustrated in FIG. 3 could be provided with one or more attachmentpoints for securely attaching at least one item of street furniture tothe foundation module.

It will be noted that the foundation module 2 in FIG. 3 differs incertain details from the foundation module 2 shown in FIGS. 1A/1B & 2.One difference is the absence of sockets penetrating through the entiredepth of the foundation module in FIG. 3 . In addition it can be seenthat, because the system in FIG. 3 requires the use of base plates,having a relatively wide base, to attach the vertical support posts 20etc., the transverse members 10 are substantially wider than thecorresponding transverse members of the module shown in FIGS. 1A/1B & 2.

Example 3

FIG. 4 and illustrates a vehicle restraint system, installed using anembodiment of a system in accordance with the invention. The illustratedembodiment is generally similar to that shown in FIGS. 2 and 3 , andcommon reference numerals are used to indicate like components.

FIG. 4 shows the system installed in situ along the outer edge of acarriageway 30. The foundation module 2 is mounted above apre-fabricated services conduit unit 32. The conduit unit 32 has across-section resembling conjoined adjacent letters “n” and “u”, suchthat the conduit unit substantially possesses rotational symmetry oforder 2 about its long axis. The conduit unit is conveniently formed ofconcrete.

The “n” shaped part 34 of the conduit unit 32 forms a protective archover services 36, laid beneath the conduit unit. The services maycomprise, for example, electrical cables, gas pipes and the like.

The “u” shaped part 38 of the conduit unit 32 forms a drainage channelto drain away surface water which falls onto the structure or whichdrains onto the structure from the surface of the carriageway 30, whichis substantially flush with the top of the foundation module 2. In thisway, the system can help reduce the build-up of standing water on thesurface of the carriageway.

One or more of the apertures 12, 14 etc. in the foundation module areprovided with a metal (e.g. steel) mesh which permits the passage ofrain or other precipitation into the channel 38, whilst preventing theingress of soil, leaves and the like which might otherwise partially orwholly block the channel 38.

The mesh is not embedded within the concrete of the module 2 but isinstead readily removable from the module, being attached thereto byreleasable attachment means, such as screws, clips or the like, orsimply resting on a flange or ledge portion of the foundation module.The mesh has an array of square holes of about 10 mm sides, and may becovered by an optional layer of drainage-permitting material such as 20mm flint filter stone or similar.

In the illustrated embodiment, the prefabricated foundation module 2 andthe prefabricated conduit unit 32 are shown as separate components, theouter edges of the conduit unit 32 having a stepped profile whichengages with a co-operating profile on the outer edges of the module 2.This engagement facilitates alignment of the foundation module 2 withthe conduit unit 32 such that the foundation module can easily be placedin the desired position relative to the conduit unit.

In other embodiments, the module 2 and conduit unit 32 may form a singleintegrated component. For example, they may be cast ab initio as asingle as a single component in concrete, or they may be case separatelybut assembled together after manufacture for delivery onsite as asingle, pre-assembled component.

Example 4

FIGS. 5A-5C are various views of a further embodiment of a foundationmodule of use in a system/method in accordance with the invention.

FIG. 5A is a perspective view of a pair of foundation modules which arein an interlocking engagement which allows for limited relativerotational or pivotal movement of the engaged adjacent foundationmodules. FIGS. 5B and 5C are plan views of the engaged portions of thefoundation modules, showing that the engagement allows for limitedrelative rotational or pivotal movement of the foundation modules in ahorizontal plane.

Where the features shown in FIGS. 5A-5C are generally equivalent orcorrespond to features shown in other drawings they are indicated withcommon reference numerals.

Referring to FIGS. 5A-5C, two identical foundation modules 2, 2 a haveends adapted and configured so as to allow for at least some relativerotational or pivotal movement in a horizontal plane. The foundationmodules 2, 2 a are each provided with a projecting male member 4 whichhas a curved face describing about 260-270° of a circular arc. The malemember 4 of foundation module 2 is received within the reciprocallyshaped female recess 6 formed on the end of foundation module 2 a. Theinterlocking engagement created by the insertion of male member 4 intothe female recess 6 prevents engagement and disengagement of thefoundation modules 2, 2 a by simple relative longitudinal movement.Instead, the foundation modules 2, 2 a are engaged or disengaged byrelative vertical displacement.

As apparent from the Figures, the arrangement allows for some limitedrelative rotational or pivotal movement of the two foundation modules 2,2 a in a horizontal plane. The angle of rotational movement permitted isincreased by the presence of angled, sloping shoulder portions 66 eitherside of the male member 4 and, to a lesser extent, by the slightlyangled sloping shoulder portions 68 either side of the female recess 6.

Example 5

Referring to FIG. 6 , a first embodiment of a system in accordance withthe present invention comprises two prefabricated foundation modules 2,2′, and a prefabricated extension module 200. The foundation modules 2,2′ are formed of reinforced concrete. Each foundation module comprises aplurality of steel rods running along the long axis of the module, withfurther transverse metal rods substantially at a right angle to the longaxis of the foundation module. Each foundation module resembles aladder, with transverse portions 10 or “rungs” at regular fixedintervals across the module, on which the attachment points areprovided. Between neighbouring rungs is an aperture, such that aplurality of apertures is formed in each foundation module. In theillustrated embodiment these apertures are positioned along the of themodule One purpose of the apertures provided in the foundation module isto facilitate access to services located beneath the module, therebylimiting inspection, maintenance or repair of the services as required.Another purpose of the apertures is to facilitate drainage of rainwateror the like.

The end of the module 2, and the end of the module 2′, are shaped anddimensioned so as to form a co-operating engagement therebetween, in theabsence of the extension module 200. Each foundation module 2, 2′ issubstantially rectilinear and approximately 6 m in length.

The attachment points on the foundation module may be of any convenienttype. In the embodiment illustrated, a hole or socket (not shown) isformed or provided in each of a plurality of the transverse rungs 10 ofthe foundation modules. Each hole or socket is able to receive asubstantially vertical support post, to which post a vehicle restraintbarrier may be attached by conventional means.

The extension module 200 is shaped and dimensioned to fit between, andengage with, the otherwise adjacent ends of the foundation modules 2,2′. Accordingly, in the illustrated embodiment, one side of theextension module 200 is provided with a recess or groove 199 whichaccommodates a cooperatively shaped projecting portion 4 on the end ofthe foundation module 2, and the opposite side of the extension module200 is formed with a projecting portion 201 which is received within aco-operating recess or groove 6 in the end of the foundation module 2′.It will be apparent that, in the embodiment illustrated in FIG. 6 , anextension module may be positioned at the end of each foundation module2. Alternatively, fewer extension modules may be employed, such that atsome locations neighbouring foundation modules 2 will directly engagewith one another.

In the embodiment shown in FIG. 6 , the extension module 200 is providedwith a single attachment point for attachment thereto of a lightingcolumn 208 for a street light. The size and shape of the extensionmodule is such that the attachment point, and the lighting columnattached thereto, may be set back from the vehicle restraint barrier bya desired amount. Accordingly, in the event of a vehicle impacting, anddeforming, the vehicle restraint barrier, the lighting column is setback sufficiently such that it will not cause injury to any occupants ofthe vehicle.

A second embodiment of a system in accordance with the invention isshown in FIG. 7 . A third embodiment of a system in accordance with theinvention is shown in FIG. 8 . The embodiments are generally similar tothat illustrated in FIG. 6 and like components are denoted by commonreference numerals. In FIG. 7 , the extension module 200 is formed witha parallel-sided groove in its upper surface. When placed in combinationwith an overlying foundation module 2, the groove in the upper surfaceof the extension module 200 accommodates part of the foundation module.In addition, a square or rectangular shaped raised portion 203 at oneend of the extension module is snugly received within a co-operativelyshaped aperture in the foundation module. In this way a close-fittingengagement is created between the extension module 200 and the overlyingfoundation module 2. In the illustrated embodiment, the extension module200 has an attachment point for a lighting column 208 for a streetlight. The shape of the extension module is such that, when in situ, isset back from a vehicle restraint system mounted on the foundationmodule 2. It will also be appreciated that the foundation modulecomprises a second aperture which is co-operatively shaped to engagewith extension module 200. As a result, the extension module 200 can bepositioned towards either end of the foundation module 2; alternatively,two separate (but substantially identical) extension modules 200 may bepositioned in engagement with a single foundation module 2.

Referring to FIG. 8 , the illustrated embodiment is essentially thereverse of that shown in the preceding Figure. Thus, the extensionmodule 200 overlies the foundation module 2. At one end region of theunderside of the extension module 200 is a square or rectangulardownward-projecting portion, which is snugly received within aco-operatively shaped aperture formed in the foundation module 2, suchthat the extension module 200 and the foundation module 2 are in aclose-fitting frictional engagement. In addition, the main body of theextension module 200 butts up in contact with the exterior surface ofthe foundation module 2.

Example 6

FIG. 9 shows a perspective view of a system in accordance with an aspectof the invention, in situ along the edge of a carriageway 30, with aninstalled vehicle restraint system 22 together with various installeditems of street furniture. The system is broadly similar to that shownin FIG. 4 , and like components are denoted by common referencenumerals.

The installation system comprises two foundation modules 2, 2′ anextension module 200 located between the two foundation modules 2, 2′and a pre-fabricated services conduit unit 32 beneath the foundationmodule. The conduit unit 32 has a cross-section resembling conjoinedadjacent letters “n” and “u”, such that the conduit unit substantiallypossesses rotational symmetry of order 2 about its long axis. Theconduit unit is conveniently formed of concrete.

The “n” shaped part 34 of the conduit unit 32 forms a protective archover services 36, laid beneath the conduit unit. The services maycomprise, for example, electrical cables, gas pipes and the like.

The “u” shaped part 38 of the conduit unit 32 forms a drainage channelto drain away surface water which falls onto the structure or whichdrains onto the structure from the surface of the carriageway 30, whichis substantially flush with the top of the foundation module 2. In thisway, the system can help reduce the build-up of standing water on thesurface of the carriageway.

Each foundation module 2, 2′ comprises a plurality of attachment pointsfor respective support posts 20, to which posts 20 a horizontal steelbarrier 22 of a vehicle restraint system (VRS) is attached. In additionto the VRS attachment points, the foundation modules 2, 2′ comprise aplurality of further attachment points to which various items of streetfurniture are attached. These items of street furniture include apedestrian safety fence 202, a yardage counter 204, and an acousticdamping fence 206. These items of street furniture are all on the farside of the vehicle restraint system relative to the carriageway 30. Theedge of the foundation modules 2, 2′ nearest to the carriageway 30 isformed with a plurality of drainage perforations 210, which permitdrainage of surface water from the carriageway 30 into the drainagechannel of the conduit unit 32.

The extension module 200 is shaped and dimensioned so as to co-operatewith the respective end portions of the two foundation modules 2, so asto engage with each thereof. The extension module 200 has an attachmentpoint for a lighting column 208.

1. A pre-fabricated modular system for installation of both a vehiclerestraint system and at least one item of street furniture; the systemcomprising at least one pre-fabricated foundation module comprising aplurality of attachment points for securely attaching a vehiclerestraint system to the foundation module; and at least onepre-fabricated extension module, which comprises one or more attachmentpoints for securely attaching at least one item of street furniture tothe extension module; and wherein the extension module and thefoundation module comprise cooperating surfaces such that the respectivemodules can be placed in frictional engagement with one another.
 2. Aprefabricated foundation module for use in installation of both avehicle restraint system and at least one item of street furniture, themodule comprising a plurality of attachment points for securelyattaching a vehicle restraint system to the foundation module, and oneor more attachment points for securely attaching at least one item ofstreet furniture to the foundation module.
 3. A system according toclaim 1, wherein the foundation module consists of or substantiallycomprises reinforced concrete.
 4. A system according to claim 3, whereinthe foundation module comprises a plurality of apertures to facilitateaccess to services locatable or located beneath the foundation module,and wherein metal reinforcing components in the foundation module do notextend into the apertures.
 5. A system according to claim 3, wherein thefoundation module comprises a plurality of apertures which, when themodule is in situ, facilitate drainage of rainwater from an adjacentcarriageway.
 6. A system according to claim 3, in combination with, orcomprising, a pre-fabricated concrete conduit unit which provides aconduit for services beneath the foundation module.
 7. A systemaccording to claim 6, wherein the conduit unit additionally provides adrainage channel for draining water from the foundation module and/or anadjacent carriageway.
 8. A pre-fabricated extension module, comprisingone or more attachment points for securely attaching at least one itemof street furniture to the extension module, the extension module beingadapted and configured to engage with a pre-fabricated foundation for avehicle restraint system.
 9. A system according to claim 3, wherein thefoundation module and the extension module comprise cooperating surfaceswhich permit abutment of the modules in frictional engagement.
 10. Asystem according to claim 3, wherein the extension module is adapted andconfigured to fit between, and engage with, two foundation modules. 11.A system according to claim 3, wherein the extension module issubstantially formed of concrete or reinforced concrete.
 12. A systemaccording to claim 3, wherein the extension module can be located at anyone of a plurality of different sites on the foundation module.
 13. Asystem according to claim 3, wherein the size and shape of the extensionmodule is selected so that the attachment point is set back from thevehicle restraint system such that a vehicle impacting and deforming thevehicle restraint will not cause injury to occupants of the vehicle byimpacting the item of street furniture.
 14. A system according to claim3, wherein the components of the system may be assembled in situ.
 15. Asystem according to claim 3, wherein opposed ends of a foundation moduleare shaped and dimensioned to co-operate with an end of a respectivefurther foundation module.
 16. A system according to claim 15, whereinan end of one foundation module forms an interlocking engagement withthe end of an adjacent foundation module.
 17. A system according toclaim 15, wherein one end of the foundation module is formed with a malemember and the opposed end of the foundation module is formed with areciprocally-shaped female member.
 18. A system according to claim 15,wherein the ends of the foundation module are shaped and dimensioned soas to permit a first foundation module to be moved in a substantiallyvertical plane relative to a second foundation module but so as toresist lateral relative movement of the foundation modules in asubstantially horizontal plane, optionally whilst allowing pivotalmovement in a horizontal plane.
 19. A system according to claim 14,wherein the components of the system may be assembled or disassembled insitu and are reusable.
 20. A method of installing a vehicle restraintsystem and at least one item of street furniture, the method comprisingthe steps of: (a) positioning a selected prefabricated foundationmodule, as previously defined, at a desired location; (b) attaching atleast one VRS support post to an attachment point on the foundationmodule; (c) providing at least one attachment point for attaching anitem of street furniture, said street furniture attachment point beingpresent either on the foundation module, or on an extension module,which extension module, if present, is positioned in engagement with thefoundation module.
 21. A method according to claim 20, furthercomprising the step (d) of attaching a VRS barrier to the support post.22. A method according to claim 20, further comprising the step (e) ofattaching an item of street furniture to the street furniture attachmentpoint.
 23. A method according to claim 20, comprising an initial step ofexcavating a trench of length and width suitable to accommodate one ormore of the selected pre-fabricated foundation modules.
 24. A methodaccording to claim 20, wherein the components of the system areassembled in situ.